Are you looking for something with exceptional optics to observe long distances, but binoculars just aren’t cutting it? Well you need a spotting scope! Spotting scopes are lightweight and portable telescopes that allows you to observe distant objects in great detail. They typically mount onto a tripod for steady viewing and suits various applications. From birdwatching to hunting and even photography, there is a scope that fits every scenario. This blog will explain how to choose the best scope for your needs.
Now there are a few basic features you will need to understand about spotting scopes. Firstly, aperture plays a huge role in the quality of the image. It determines the light gathering capabilities of the scope, thus, how bright and sharp the image will be. A scope with a wider aperture will yield clearer images.
Next is lens quality and coatings. Spotting scopes come with standard dispersion (SD) or the superior extra low dispersion (ED) lenses. ED lenses use a high quality lens construction which disperses light properly and minimises chromatic aberration. They effectively compensate for colour fringing at high magnifications. Lens coatings are also important as they boost light transmission and eliminates surface reflections on the glass. Lenses that are fully multi-coated will produce the sharpest images.
The eyepiece will determine the magnification of the scope. Smaller spotting scopes typically have magnifications of 15x-50x, depending on the brand. Larger scopes can be around 20x-60x. If you are aiming for long range observations, definitely consider a scope with an aperture of 80mm and up. Moreover, the orientation of the eyepiece can be either straight or angled at 45-degrees. Angled eyepieces offer versatility and are far more comfortable to viewers. On the other hand, straight eyepieces can be work for specific tasks such as mounting on a vehicle’s window. It also allows you to point your eye directly at a target similar to a monocular.
Birdwatching/Wildlife Observation
Spotting scopes will improve your viewing experience when observing birds or wildlife. A scope with an aperture of at least 80mm will ensure optimal light gathering capabilities. This will lead to brighter and sharper images, as well as a wider field of view. A scope of this calibre will enable you to see more detail of wildlife especially in low light conditions. Furthermore, an angled eyepiece is beneficial as it allows for a more comfortable viewing experience.
A great budget spotting scope is the Celestron Ultima 80 20-60x80A Eyepiece Spotting Scope. It has multiple coatings on the lenses for excellent light transmission and comes with a 20x-60x zoom eyepiece.
A scope with ED lenses, however, will yield the best results as they greatly reduce chromatic aberration. Users will experience higher definition images with little to no colour fringing when comparing with SD lenses. The Vanguard Endeavor HD 82A Spotting Scope -20-60×82 has brilliant clarity at a great price.
Hunting
When choosing a scope for hunting there are a few factors you need to consider. Yes, having a wider aperture will be beneficial for better light transmission, clarity and low light conditions. However, a 50mm or 65mm lens scope is more compact and better for traveling light.
Moreover, a straight scope is better for seated positions and shooting prone as it matches with your line of sight. They are also better for downward viewing. On the other hand, an angled eyepiece is more comfortable for prolonged observations. It is also easy to share among hunters of different heights without making adjustments.
Furthermore, it is necessary that the scope has ED lenses and multiple coatings to maximise detection in all light conditions.
The Saxon 9-27×56 Firetail ED Spotting Scope is a compact spotting scope with ED lenses making it easily transportable.
The Vortex Razor HD 27-60X85 Straight Spotting Scope is the ultimate spotting scope for hunting. It includes razor sharp ED lenses, multiple coatings, dielectric prisms and is durable. It comes in both eyepiece orientations.
Archery/Target Shooting
Spotting scopes allow archers and shooters to accurately identify and examine their target. They can also observe their shot placement so that adjustments can be made. Similar to hunting, straight spotting scopes will be better for prone shooting and downward viewing. They’re also better at higher positions, allowing you to clearly observe with a direct line.
When choosing a scope for archery, you won’t necessarily need a wide aperture or high magnification. As you are only observing one target, you won’t need a wide field of view. Similarly, standard competition shooting distances range from 50 meters to 70 meters. Therefore, a 15x-50x magnification will suffice. Moreover, it will minimise your carry load as they are more compact.
For target shooting at long distances, a scope with a magnification of 20x-60x will be beneficial. Shooters should also consider a wider aperture with ED lenses for better quality and light transmission. This will allow them to see clearer at long distances where atmospheric conditions play a factor.
The Vortex Viper HD 15-45×65 Straight Spotting Scope is a compact spotter with ED lens an multiple coatings. Ideal for both shooters and archers.
Digiscoping
Digiscoping is a form of photography where you attach a DSLR camera to a spotting scope. This allows photographers to capture images at long distances without the need for a heavy telephoto lens. The camera simply attaches the the back of the eyepiece via a T-Mount or T-Ring and relevant photo attachment adapter designed for the specific scope.
Now, you can do this on a budget, however, the best photos will come from the most premium spotting scopes. Scopes with advanced multi-coatings across the internal prism and high grade ED glass will reduce unwanted reflective light. It will also boost light transmission. Collectively, these factors will result in delivering very bright, true-to-life views. Apertures between 80mm to 100mm will give a nice wide field of view and greater light gathering capabilities.
The Kowa TSN-99A Prominar Series 99mm Angled Spotting Scope is the cream of the crop of spotting scopes. These Japanese made scopes boasts unparalleled image quality thanks to the fluorite crystal within its XD lens. They are sure to give you a superior visual experience.
The Leica APO Televid 82 Angled Spotting Scope is another premium scope combines apochromatic optics with flouride glass. Users can experience remarkable images and enhance their photography.
Conclusion
This blog outlines how to choose a spotting scope based on the user’s application. It is always important to consider what you want to use it for to ensure you get the best possible image. Please click here to find out more about spotting scopes.